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Congress has approved $300 million in Foreign Military Financing (FMF) for Taiwan as part of the fiscal year 2024 State Department spending bill.

This allocation is aimed at bolstering Taipei’s military capabilities amidst increasing geopolitical tensions in the region. The funding, though significant, is part of a broader conversation on US military support for Taiwan, marking a continuous effort by Congress to support the island’s defense needs.

The decision comes as a compromise between different fiscal visions within Congress, with the House proposing $500 million and the Senate advocating for $113 million in Taiwan FMF. This funding will primarily be used to procure weapons from US defense contractors, with a notable allowance of $45 million for Taiwan to purchase equipment and services locally.

According to US officials, the aid provision is intended to help deter China’s potential invasion of the island. Despite this, China has warned that it will use force if necessary to take control of Taiwan and has ramped up military exercises around the island.